Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rotating Rooms and 3D Printed Concrete in a Modular Family Residence

Author:
In Yui Geoffrey Hung
Rotating Rooms and 3D Printed Concrete in a Modular Family Residence

Project in-detail

With rotating rooms optimized for sunlight exposure and constructed using 3D printed concrete, the design creates a modular family residence that adapts seamlessly to growing household needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating rooms adjust for optimal sunlight exposure throughout the day.
02
Constructed using 3D printed concrete for efficiency and precision.
03
Features a modular layout that accommodates future expansion needs.
04
Integrated wind tower for natural ventilation, enhancing indoor comfort.
05
Utilizes smart glass that dynamically adjusts to environmental conditions.

### Overview and Concept

Located in Hatta, approximately 134 km east of Dubai, UAE, the Famil-tree House is designed to reflect traditional Arab and Islamic values while incorporating modern architectural practices. The concept is rooted in the dynamics of a family tree, emphasizing adaptability and connection. The design aims to create a flexible living environment that can evolve in response to the changing needs of extended families, supporting both privacy and communal interaction.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy

The Famil-tree House employs a modular design featuring a circular central core surrounded by individual living units. This configuration facilitates a balance between privacy and community, encouraging interpersonal relationships among inhabitants. The primary layout consists of two bedrooms with the potential for expansion, accommodating up to four additional rooms or living spaces. This flexibility allows it to adapt to different family configurations, making it suitable for varying group sizes and generational changes.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction utilizes an array of advanced materials to enhance durability and efficiency. The integration of 3D printed concrete allows for rapid assembly, particularly in the upper levels. Intelligent glass is used to optimize energy consumption by adjusting its transparency based on environmental conditions, reducing reliance on artificial climate control. Additionally, a stainless steel frame contributes to structural integrity while maintaining an elegant appearance. Wood finishes are incorporated to add warmth and comfort to the interior spaces. Elevating the design's environmental consideration, natural ventilation is facilitated by a traditional wind tower, complemented by sensor-controlled louvers to promote airflow.

Unique features also include rotating rooms on the second floor, designed to pivot for optimal sunlight exposure while reflecting biomimicry principles. The incorporation of a *majlis* fosters cultural connections, providing a designated space for family gatherings. Overall, the Famil-tree House emphasizes a harmonized approach to living, where architecture supports both personal and communal well-being.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy